There are many ways to enhance your vacation at Walt Disney World, from reservations to more Dole Whips, but there’s a tried and tested solution to getting the best experience on certain attractions. Choose your seats wisely and you’ll be happier!
Before I share my thoughts on this topic, it’s important to realize that there are certain attractions that don’t really have “better” seats and there are 100% attractions that have “bad seats”. Let’s jump into this, because there’s a lot to take in.
Magic Kingdom
Jungle Cruise
Love leg room? Head for the back seats near the entrance. Try to avoid sitting right next to the Skipper on the left side. But if you want to be part of the jokes, grab a spot on the front right side.
Pirates of the Caribbean
I keep getting soaked, so I’m not sure that there’s a real “dry” seat anymore…but just be aware that the front seat will almost guarantee that you’ll be walking out with a wet butt!
Haunted Mansion
There’s actually a hidden spot in the stretching room. Stand underneath the “woman with parasol” because that wall will open and it’ll give you extra time to get to the doombuggies!
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
Front seat is slow, but will give you a great Photopass Photo! IF you want a little extra airtime, ask for the backseat.
Space Mountain
Both rides are literally the same track, just flipped. There’s no benefit for Omega or Alpha, so depending on whether or not you’ve got a FastPass will dictate where you’re going. I’m not a fan of the front seat, but that’s due to the fact that I’m tall and the leg room is horrendous!
Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor
Want to be part of the show? Sit in the inside aisle seats. The Cast Members can easily reach you with microphones there. And if you want to be “That Guy,” just wear sunglasses and sit in the front right!
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Epcot
Test Track
This will probably stay relevant when Test Track comes back online after the refurbishment.
The front row is where it’s at. Sit on the right side for the best views of the outdoor track. Want more thrills? Pick the left side for the fast section.
Soarin’
This is actually a fun one, because there’s a specific thing to ask the cast members for…because it’s common knowledge that Disney actually messed up the projection. You want to be in B1 or B2, and definitely don’t want to be in A or C.
Frozen Ever After
The front row will guarantee that you’ll get soaked, but the photos and videos are so much better when you don’t have heads in your pics during the backwards portions of the ride.
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Hollywood Studios
Tower of Terror
Front Row Center is the best for thrill seekers, basically because you don’t have the security of the ride vehicle cage.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
I’ve had great rides in the front and the back, but because everything is in the dark – it really doesn’t do much to be in the middle. The only thing that I would suggest is that you want to be in the front “car” of your section, because then in the photo you’ll be seen!
Star Tours
Becoming the “Rebel Spy” is everything BUT random, so here’s what you can do to increase your chances. As soon as you get to your seat, stow your bags and buckle your seatbelt. Leave your 3-D glasses (flight goggles) off until the Cast Member tells you to put them on. Keep your head up, facing forward looking “smug” as they do the safety spiel. Okay, maybe not smug, but you want to be confident in your spy-ness. Cross both fingers and toes…because the secret is out on how to be the Rebel Spy!
Muppet Vision 3D
Being in the front left-hand side is always ideal because you’ll get the chance to see Sweetums!
Fantasmic!
Middle is the best, but it’s such a huge theatre that you’re going to end up being moved and squished in order to fit more guests into the show. The Dining Package is stuck on the side and doesn’t really get a better view than a guest who just lines up with everyone else.
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Animal Kingdom
Expedition Everest
Back row isn’t the best, because you’ll want to get the best thrills…which is actually the front row!
Festival of the Lion King
Getting your kid to participate in the show is all up to the cast members who are working the crowds…so try to get a seat closer to the front and that will increase the chances.
Kilimanjaro Safaris
You’ll want to sit on the outside aisles for sure, however most of the animals are actually viewed from the Left. This means that you’ll want to ask the Cast member for the outside seats, and they’ll do their best to facilitate your request – even if it means that you wait for the next vehicle.
Dinosaur
Front right seat – that’s where you want to be. It’s the perfect spot when the Carnotaurus shows up!
Kali River Rapids
Oh wait, you’re thinking that you’re going to stay dry on Kali River Rapids….yea, no! 🙂
Quick Tips
- Always ask nicely for the seat you want.
- Think about what matters most to you – staying dry, getting good photos, or maximum thrills.
- Lightning Lane and dining packages are great, but they don’t always get you the best seats.
- Every rider is different – what works for some might not work for others.
Now you’re ready to get the best possible experience on every ride. Have fun!